[Commentary] It’s time to end stereotypes and toxic masculinity in clothing choices

Crop tops are popular among today’s youth due to fashion trends, media influence, and changing views toward self-expression.

Inspired by the ’90s fashion renaissance, a period marked by a resurgence of bold and daring fashion choices, crop tops have gained popularity among celebrities and social media influencers.

This revival not only brings back a beloved trend but also supports the body positivity movement, encouraging people to feel secure in their skin. These tops also provide adaptability and comfort, particularly in warm weather, making them a practical yet fashionable choice for many.

However, it can be noted that a lot of Filipinos are still not into the idea. It seems like no matter how accepting or inclusive the world becomes, Filipinos will never truly become “accepting.”

Discrimination still exists

The criticism Carlos Yulo faced for wearing a crop top, which sparked a lot of gay jokes on social media, is a reminder of the societal challenges we still face.

It’s not just about a piece of clothing; it’s about the deeply ingrained biases and stereotypes that still exist in our society.

The same criticism is directed at other celebrities who wear crop tops, such as Kyle Ecchari, Darren Espanto, and others, citing their attire as “feminine” since women generally wear it.

Dress choices can still lead to damaging and out-of-date stereotypes, and it is depressing to see that fashion can still be a means of self-expression. The instance highlights the pervasive biases wherein some styles are inflexibly linked to gender standards.

Although today’s fashion is more flexible, toxic masculinity, a cultural norm that discourages men from showing any traits that are considered ‘feminine ‘, still exists. This reinforces the notion that men need to live up to certain expectations to be acceptable. Although crop tops are merely made of fabric, the responses show how much pressure there is on people to conform to rigid gender roles.

As a nation, we should celebrate diversity in all its forms, including how individuals choose to express themselves. Making jokes about someone’s sexual orientation based solely on their attire only serves to reinforce negative stereotypes and hinder social progress.

People’s identities and worth are not determined by their clothes, so we must shift toward a society where everyone can dress however they like without worrying about criticism or mockery.

To foster real progress, we must cultivate open-mindedness, empathy, and acceptance. These values are the seeds of a society where everyone can express themselves freely and without fear of judgment.

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